While the highly popular Mahindra Thar is currently offered with convertible top and hardtop options, the lifestyle SUV lineup lacks an open-top version, much like the Mahindra Classic of yesteryear. However, Mangalore based CAM Customs addressed this problem and came up with a solution for it. KAM Customs offers a fully open version of the new Mahindra Thar, which comes with a folding windshield – just like the old-school Mahindra Classic.
For this open version of the Mahindra Thar, KAM Customs chopped off the top portion of a hardtop Thar, including the windshield, pillars, roof panel and window panels. In this complicated process, the removed parts are integrated into the SUV’s core structure, so it doesn’t compromise much on structural stability.
Read also: Buying a second-hand Mahindra Thar is better than buying a new one: 5 reasons
This Thar even loses its original door panels and instead gets aftermarket openable metal tube door panels that are slimmer than the original. These door panels are equipped with proper door handles and a perforated metal plate in their central parts. Mahindra has retained the windshield glass, although the surrounding panel in front of it is an all-new unit and folds down. It means that the windshield can be folded down even while driving this Thar.
To ensure that structural stability is not lost, KAM Customs made a custom and removable roll cage for this open Mahindra Thar. It also features a fabric top, in case the owner wants a shield over the front seats while driving.
Mahindra used to manufacture Willys
The whole look of this open-top custom Mahindra Thar resembles the Willys Jeep of yesteryear. Being based on the base spec AX version of the Thar, it lacks alloy wheels, steering wheel mounted audio and Bluetooth controls, cruise control and an audio system. However, it comes with a manual AC, which is not very effective to use now given its open nature.
Other changes to this open-top Mahindra Thar include modified footsteps for easy entry and exit. This Thar has been modified for a Member of Parliament, who intends to use this vehicle for election campaigns and public gatherings. It should be known that such modifications change the original structure and identity of the vehicle, for which obtaining RTO approvals and certifications is a complicated and lengthy process.
In India, modification jobs are not very popular, mainly because of the strictness of the RTO rules. In the past, many vehicles have been seized by the police due to structural modifications. Since the structural modifications make the vehicles weak, RTO suggests keeping the vehicles in stock.
Also read: 10 DC Design Cars And What They Look Like In The REAL World: Maruti Swift To Mahindra XUV500
